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Dorset · beach metal detecting rules

Can you metal detect on Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole beaches?

No published rule found

BCP's byelaws page bans metal detectors in parks, gardens and nature reserves but doesn't mention beaches. A 2014 Mudeford Sandbank plan reportedly says the council doesn't allow detectors on its beaches, but we couldn't open it to confirm. Ask BCP before detecting on its beaches.

Covers
Sandbanks to Highcliffe, incl. Poole, Bournemouth, Boscombe, Southbourne, Hengistbury Head and Mudeford Sandbank
Watch out for
Parks, gardens and nature reserves: metal detectors not allowed (BCP byelaws page).
Source
www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/about-the-council/byelaws-access-and-policies/general-and-
Checked
8 Nov 2026 · confidence: low

We couldn't find a published rule. Foreshore owned by the Crown Estate follows the Crown Estate's terms; for council-owned beaches, ask the council before you dig. We emailed them on 9 Nov 2026 and will update this page if they reply.

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